In partnership with the International Centre for Aerospace Training (ICAT) we are delivering the Aircraft Maintenance Apprenticeship programme supporting the next generation of Engineers and Aircraft Technicians. Aircraft certifying technicians maintain and certify aircraft ranging from light aircraft and helicopters to commercial airliners and military aircraft. Completing the Engineering Maintenance Technician Level 3 Apprenticeship opens the door to a wide range of careers across the aerospace industry.
What you’ll achieve
On successful completion of the apprenticeship, you’ll gain nationally recognised engineering qualifications, including:
- Level 2 Diploma in Aerospace and Aviation Engineering (Foundation Competence) – EAL (QAN 601/7289/7)
- Level 3 Diploma in Aviation Maintenance (Development Competence) – EAL (603/0372/4)
- Level 3 Diploma in On-Aircraft Maintenance Category A – City & Guilds 2675-04 (QAN 600/1927/X)
- UK Part-66 qualification (where applicable)
These qualifications demonstrate occupational competence and prepare learners for careers in aircraft maintenance.
How is the programme delivered
Year 1
During the first year, apprentices complete practical and technical training in person at ICAT, developing the core knowledge, skills and behaviours required for the role.
Years 2 and 3
During Years 2 and 3, apprentices spend the majority of their time working with their employer while continuing their apprenticeship through structured workplace learning and regular training support.
As confidence grows, apprentices take increasing responsibility for real engineering activities, including:
- Planned preventative maintenance
- Fault diagnosis and repair
- Working from engineering drawings and technical documentation
- Maintaining mechanical, electrical or control systems
- Improving equipment reliability, productivity and safety
- Working alongside experienced engineers and maintenance teams
Learner commitment
Alongside their employed role, apprentices are expected to:
- Attend all scheduled training sessions, workshops and progress reviews
- Complete off-the-job learning activities
- Build and maintain an apprenticeship portfolio
- Apply new knowledge and skills in the workplace
- Demonstrate professional behaviours including teamwork, communication, problem solving and a strong commitment to health and safety
End-Point assessment
Towards the end of the programme, apprentices receive dedicated support to prepare for their End-Point Assessment (EPA), including portfolio review, assessment preparation and guidance to demonstrate occupational competence.
How to apply
Apprentices are recruited directly by leading aerospace employers rather than through the training provider. Current employers include organisations such as Boeing and Virgin Atlantic, with apprenticeship vacancies advertised on their careers websites.
Recruitment typically takes place between December and February, although exact dates vary each year. We recommend checking employer careers pages regularly or searching the Government’s Find an Apprenticeship service for the latest vacancies.
Eligibility requirements for recruitment are set by each individual employers. As a guide, successful applicants will typically have 4 GCSEs at Grade 4 (C) or above in Mathematics, English and a Science subject.
Above all, employers are looking for one thing: a genuine passion for engineering and aircraft maintenance. Demonstrating your enthusiasm and interest can make all the difference.
Progression opportunities
After completing the apprenticeship, learners can continue developing their skills through higher-level qualifications and apprenticeships, including:
- Level 4 Engineering qualifications
- Level 4 Engineering Technician Apprenticeships
- Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs)
- HNCs and HNDs in Engineering
- Engineering Degree Apprenticeships
- Systems Engineer Degree Apprenticeship
- Manufacturing Engineer Degree Apprenticeship
These progression routes can lead to specialist technical, supervisory and leadership roles across aerospace, engineering, manufacturing, utilities and advanced technology industries.
Whether you aspire to become a technical specialist, engineering manager or degree-qualified engineer, this apprenticeship provides a strong foundation for long-term career success.
